Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems

Standards & Codes

Environmental health staff reviews applications, issues permits, and conducts inspections of onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS) according to the laws, rules, and regulations concerning minimum construction standards for OWTS set forth by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MO-DHSS), entitled Missouri Laws Accompanied by Department of Health and Senior Services Rules Governing Onsite Sewage Systems, as well as local ordinances as set forth by Chapter 17, Article II, Sec. 17-26 through 55 of the City of St. Joseph Code of Ordinances.

Construction, Repair & Replacement

Permits are issued for the construction of new systems when approved, or for approved repairs and replacements to existing systems that meet minimum construction standards per regulations referenced above. Existing repairs and/or replacements must be cross-referenced with Chapter 29, Section 29-137 of the Code of Ordinances prior to approval and issuance of a permit to construct or repair the system.

Additional Resources

Missouri laws, accompanied by Department of Health and Senior Services, rules governing onsite sewage systems (PDF).